Home Garden

Non-Chemical Way to Remove Skunk Odor From a Home

If a skunk sprayed near or in your home, you can use several commercial products to remove the odors that follow. If you prefer to use natural, non-chemical home remedies, skip the tomato juice -- it doesn't work. Rather, use items that absorb, neutralize and get rid of skunk odors. Note that using a combination methods, often several times each, is more effective than using just one odor removal method.

Things You'll Need

  • Fans
  • Cooking pot
  • Vinegar
  • Bowls
  • Coffee grounds
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Baking soda
  • Dishwashing detergent
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the windows and doors. Turn on exhaust fans. Set fans in windows and doorways to blow the smell outside. However, if the smell originated from the outdoors, do not open the doors. Only open the windows that have window fans in them that are blowing air outside.

    • 2

      Mix four parts water and one part white vinegar in a pot and simmer on the stove for several hours to help get rid of the smell. While the vinegar is simmering, keep the windows and doors closed. Also, turn on the ventilation system in the home, such as forced air, to distribute the vinegar throughout the home because it is effective in absorbing odors. You can also set bowls of vinegar and coffee grounds around the home to absorb the skunk odors. Replace daily with fresh grounds and new vinegar.

    • 3

      Mix 1 quart hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 baking soda and 2 teaspoons of dishwashing detergent. Use this mixture to clean pets and people. Let it sit for about five minutes before rinsing it off and repeat, if necessary. Keep the mixture away from your eyes, nose and mouth. You can also use this mixture to clean fabrics. However, test for colorfastness in an inconspicuous area before use. This mixture must be made fresh and used while it is still bubbling to work effectively.

    • 4

      Clean hard surfaces with one part vinegar and one part water. This works well to get rid of the skunk odors on counters, walls and tile floors. Vinegar is an alternative to using bleach or ammonia.

    • 5

      Launder affected clothes in one part vinegar and nine parts water. Dry items outside or in an area that is not affected. For items you can't clean, hang them up in an airy location, preferably outdoors, until the smell dissipates.